Definition

What is indigestion?

Indigestion is a general term that describes discomfort in your upper abdomen. Sometimes, you feel full, uncomfortable in your stomach during or after a meal. You might have burning or pain in the upper part of your stomach, too. It’s indigestion, also called dyspepsia or an upset stomach.

Indigestion is not a disease, but it can be a symptom of another digestive disease, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers or gallbladder disease. Although indigestion is common, each person may experience indigestion in a slightly different way and may be eased with lifestyle changes and medication.

How common is indigestion?

This health condition is extremely common. It can affect patients at any age. It can be managed by reducing your risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for further information.

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of indigestion?

The common symptoms of indigestion are

Early fullness during a meal.

Uncomfortable fullness after a meal.

Belching and gas.

Discomfort in the upper abdomen.

Burning in the upper abdomen.

Bloating in the upper abdomen.

Nausea and vomit.

There may be some symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns about a symptom, please consult your doctor.

When should I see my doctor?

You should contact your doctor if you have any of the following:

Discomfort persistent feeling for more than two weeks.

Unexpected weight loss or loss of appetite.

Repeated vomiting or vomiting with blood.

Black, tarry stools.

Trouble swallowing that gets progressively worse.

Fatigue or weakness, which may indicate anemia.

Shortness of breath, sweating or chest pain radiating to the jaw, neck or arm.

Chest pain on exertion or with stress.

Causes

What causes indigestion?

Indigestion has many possible causes. Common causes of indigestion include:

Using Aspirin and many other pain relievers, birth control pills, Steroid medications, certain antibiotics, thyroid medicines.

Indigestion might occur in many women during the middle and later parts of pregnancy. Due to hormone changes, the muscles of the digestive tract relax, the pressure of the growing baby puts on the stomach.

How is indigestion treated?

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs),which can reduce stomach acid. PPIs may be recommended if you experience heartburn along with indigestion.

H-2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs),which can also reduce stomach acid.

Prokinetics,which may be helpful if your stomach empties slowly.

Antibiotics,if pylori bacteria are causing your indigestion.

Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications,which may ease the discomfort from indigestion by decreasing your sensation of pain.

Alternative and complementary treatments may help ease indigestion, although none of these treatments has been well-studied. Always check with your doctor before taking any supplements to be sure you’re taking a safe dose and that the supplement won’t adversely interact with any other medications you’re taking.

Acupuncture, which may work by blocking the pathways of nerves that carry sensations of pain to the brain.

Mindfulness meditation.

STW 5 (Iberogast), a liquid supplement that contains extracts of herbs including bitter candytuft, peppermint leaves, caraway and licorice root. STW 5 may work by reducing the production of gastric acid.

Lifestyle changes & home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help me manage indigestion?

The following lifestyles and home remedies might help you cope with indigestion: